A utility terrain vehicle (UTV) is an off-road vehicle that can be used for recreational adventures. Frequently used to traverse challenging terrain, such as steep and sloping hills or muddy trails, UTVs have the potential to cause injury. As such, UTV riders should keep safety in the forefront of their mind and take precautionary steps to prevent injury.

Training

• The best way to learn how to use and operate a UTV is by enrolling in a UTV safety training course. Not only will a safety training course educate you how to properly handle the vehicle, especially under dangerous conditions, but also insurance companies will often reward a driver with a discount for having taken the course.

Attire

• Wearing proper attire while operating a UTV is critical in the event there is a collision. U.S. Department of Transportation-certified helmet, goggles, gloves and boots should be worn. Ideally, the driver should also wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, leaving little-to-no bare skin exposed.

Pavement

• A UTV should not be driven on pavement unless doing so is necessary to cross terrain. UTVs are specifically designed to be driven on natural land and can be difficult to control on pavement. Moreover, by riding on pavement, a UTV driver increases the odds that he will collide with another vehicle.

Tip

• While UTVs differ slightly from ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), the safety rules applicable to ATVs and UTVs are the same.

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